The Effectiveness of a Topical Turmeric-Based Formulation on Contact Dermatitis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background Contact dermatitis (CD) affects approximately 15% of adults worldwide, and commonly used treatments are often associated with adverse effects. Traditional medicine sources, including Persian medicine, offer promising alternatives. Based on the principles of Persian medicine, the formulation investigated in this study combines Curcuma longa L., Lawsonia inermis L., and Aristolochia rotunda L. (CLA) to achieve a synergistic therapeutic effect. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a 4-week intervention using CLA cream in patients with mild-to-moderate CD. Methods A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in 64 participants who were assigned to apply either CLA cream or the base cream. Assessments included demographic characteristics, the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), the Three-Item Severity Score (TIS), and skin parameters, including transepidermal water loss (TEWL), stratum corneum hydration, skin pH, and sebum production. Statistical analyses were performed using repeated-measures analysis of variance with least significant difference post hoc tests, Friedman tests, and Wilcoxon tests. Results The CLA group showed significantly greater decreases in TEWL and TIS scores than the control group (P = 0.004 and P = 0.003, respectively). In the within-group analysis, sebum production increased significantly after the intervention in the CLA group (P = 0.006). Stratum corneum hydration improved significantly in both groups. Conclusions A 4-week course of CLA cream appears to ameliorate inflammatory symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate contact dermatitis. Further large-scale, longer-duration trials are warranted to establish the clinical utility of CLA cream as a complementary therapeutic option.